Complete Idea About Manaslu Circuit Trek

3rd Aug, 2023

Complete Idea About Manaslu Circuit Trek

- himalayaheart

Introduction:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an extraordinary adventure that takes you around the majestic Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world. This trek is a favorite among travelers looking for an unusual and off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal, as it provides the ideal balance of natural beauty, cultural contacts, and challenging routes.

Major Attractions:

Mount Manaslu: Standing tall at 8,163 meters, Mount Manaslu is the centerpiece of this trek. The captivating views of this majestic peak throughout the journey leave trekkers spellbound.

Rich Cultural Experience: The Manaslu region is home to diverse ethnic communities, including Gurungs, Tamangs, and Sherpas. Trekkers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique cultures and traditions of these communities.

Larkya La Pass: Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,135 meters is one of the highlights of the trek. It rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Remote Villages: The trail passes through beautiful villages like Sama Gaon and Samdo, where trekkers can experience the traditional lifestyle of the locals.

Short Itinerary :

How to Get There:

From Kathmandu to Sotikhola, the Manaslu Circuit Trek begins with a beautiful drive. For this journey, trekkers have the option between using private jeeps or local buses. Trekkers can get a glimpse of rural Nepal on the drive, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Entrance and Permits:

Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: To trek in the Manaslu region, trekkers need a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit. This permit is issued by the Government of Nepal and is essential for all foreign trekkers. The cost of the permit varies depending on the season.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): A part of the Manaslu Circuit Trek falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area. Therefore, trekkers are required to obtain the ACAP permit, which helps fund conservation and sustainable development efforts in the region.

Cost and Expenses:

The cost of the Manaslu Circuit Trek can vary depending on factors like the trekking agency, the duration of the trek, and the level of comfort desired. On average, the cost for this trek ranges from USD 1500 to USD 2000 per person

Trek Type:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a tea house trek, which means that trekkers can find basic lodges and tea houses along the trail for accommodation and meals. This type of trek offers a more comfortable journey as trekkers do not need to carry heavy camping gear and food supplies. Tea houses provide simple yet comfortable rooms with warm blankets and basic facilities.

Food and Accommodation:

During the trek, trekkers can enjoy a variety of local Nepali dishes as well as some international cuisines at the teahouses and lodges. Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepali meal consisting of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and meat, is a popular choice among trekkers. Other options include noodles, pasta, momo (Nepali dumplings), and pancakes. The tea houses also serve hot beverages like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate to keep trekkers warm.

As for accommodation, the tea houses offer twin-sharing rooms with comfortable beds and warm blankets. However, as the trek progresses to higher altitudes, the facilities become more basic. It is advisable to bring a sleeping bag to ensure a comfortable and warm night's sleep.

Best Time to Trek:

The spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons are the best times to accomplish the Manaslu Circuit Trek. These months are ideal for trekking because of their steady weather, vibrant skies, and comfortable temperatures. Rhododendron and other wildflowers bloom in vibrant colors throughout the spring, beautifying the surroundings. Beautiful mountain views and great visibility can be seen in the autumn.

Trekking becomes difficult and dangerous during the monsoon season (June to August), when the region observes heavy rainfall and slippery paths. Similarly, the area becomes unsuitable for trekking throughout the winter (December to February) due to the intense cold and the possibility of heavy snowfall at higher altitudes.

Difficulty Level:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is considered a moderately difficult trek. While it does not require any technical climbing skills, trekkers need to be physically fit and mentally prepared to walk for long hours on rugged and uneven terrain. The challenging Larkya La Pass crossing at an elevation of 5,135 meters is one of the toughest sections of the trek. Proper acclimatization and a gradual climb are essential to avoid altitude-related illnesses.

Transportation:

The journey to the starting point of the trek, Sotikhola, begins with a drive from Kathmandu. Trekkers have the option to take a private jeep or a local bus. The drive offers scenic views of lush valleys, rivers, and terraced fields.

Route to Trek:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek starts from Sotikhola, a small village in the Gorkha district. The trail takes trekkers through a variety of landscapes, including lush green forests, terraced fields, and high alpine zones. The trek passes through several charming villages and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Annapurna II.

The trek follows the Budhi Gandaki River and crosses several suspension bridges. Trekkers traverse through the valleys of Larkya and Dudh Khola, leading to the challenging Larkya La Pass. The trail then descends to the Marsyangdi Valley, where it merges with the Annapurna Circuit route.

Why is Manaslu Circuit Trek Popular?

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is gaining popularity among trekkers for various reasons:

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unlike the popular Annapurna and Everest regions, the Manaslu region remains relatively untouched and less crowded. Trekkers seeking a peaceful and remote trekking experience are drawn to the serenity of this region.

Scenic Beauty: The trek offers diverse landscapes, from lush forests and terraced fields to high alpine zones. The stunning views of Mount Manaslu and other Himalayan peaks leave trekkers in awe.

Cultural Exploration: The trek provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich culture and traditions of the ethnic communities living in the region. The warm hospitality of the locals enhances the trekking experience.

Challenging Adventure: The trek presents a moderate level of challenge, making it suitable for experienced trekkers looking for an adventurous journey. The crossing of the Larkya La Pass adds excitement and a sense of accomplishment to the trek.

Conservation Area: The Manaslu region is a restricted area, and trekking here requires special permits. The conservation efforts and controlled access help protect the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

Why With Us?

Choosing Himalaya Heart Treks and Expedition for the Manaslu Circuit Trek ensures a safe and memorable journey. Here's why trekkers prefer us:

Local Expertise: Our team consists of experienced and knowledgeable local guides and staff who are familiar with the region and its cultural nuances.

Safety First: Your safety is our utmost priority. We prioritize proper acclimatization and carry necessary safety equipment to ensure a secure trekking experience.

Customized Itineraries: We offer flexible and customized itineraries to suit the preferences and needs of our clients. Whether you want a shorter or longer trek, we can modify  the itinerary accordingly.

Small Group Size: To ensure personalized attention and a better trekking experience, we maintain small group sizes. This allows our guides to give individual attention to each trekker.

Responsible Tourism: As a responsible trekking agency, we are committed to promoting sustainable and eco-friendly trekking practices. We respect the local culture and environment and aim to leave a positive impact on the communities we visit.

Quality Services: We provide high-quality services, including comfortable accommodation, nutritious meals, and well-maintained equipment during the trek.

Affordable Pricing: Our trekking packages are competitively priced, offering value for money without compromising on the quality of services.

Customer Satisfaction: The satisfaction of our clients is our ultimate goal. We take pride in the positive feedback and reviews we receive from our satisfied trekkers.

Conclusion:

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers trekkers stunning vistas, unique cultures, and difficult terrain on a journey that is really unforgettable. Every step of the walk gives a distinctive experience, from the majestic Larkya La Pass to the imposing Mount Manaslu to the remote villages. Due to its off-the-beaten-path appeal, stunning landscape, cultural diversity, and sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing the Larkya La Pass, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is well-deserving of its popularity.

With Himalaya Heart Treks and Expedition, you can tackle this challenging journey with confidence since they are a trustworthy trekking company that places customer happiness and safety foremost. So, lace on your hiking boots and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime journey as you discover the Himalayan region of Manaslu, a hidden jewel.